Kelly worried about threat to frontline HSE staff

A Wexford Councillor has said that he has grave concerns about the effects that the latest HSE funding crisis will have on frontline staff in County Wexford and on the staffing of the new A&E unit at Wexford General Hospital.  Cllr Anthony Kelly, a long time critic of health cuts, is fearful that the expected €78 million shortfall in this year's health budget may lead to further service cuts like the closure of operating theatre 2 in 2012.

The Sinn Féin Councillor said;

"I'm highly concerned that the HSE once again appears to be running well over budget this year.  Sinn Féin has stood against the threat of downgrading of health services in this county for a long-time now and we always remain vigilant to any threats coming down the line.  This appears to be a serious storm brewing."

"We are all looking forward to the opening of Wexford General Hospitals new A&E unit and it is obviously a hugely positive story for the whole South East.  I don't think it's too much to ask that the Minister for Health confirms that this latest shortfall will not affect the HSEs ability to staff the new unit or lead to any closures or staff loses, temporary or otherwise, at our county hospital."